What Dog Breeds Make Good Riding Companion Dogs?

When choosing and training your riding companion dog, there are a few things you need to consider. You can find out what they are and which dogs enjoy walking with a horse.

In theory, all dogs, even mixed breeds, can be trained to ride as companions. The dogs must be physically fit, willing to run and obedient, as well as used to horses. It is also best to only ride with adults: a young quadruped whose musculoskeletal structure is not fully developed can’t and shouldn’t run far distances. Running next to a horse will strain their joints too much.

What makes a good riding companion dog?

It is not just the dogs that determine which four-legged friend makes a good riding partner. It is important that the relationship between the horse, dog, and rider be good. The different species should be well-accustomed to each other, and behave well. To avoid accidents, it is important to keep the dog and yourself under control when you are riding. The riding companion dog must be a stable character and able to listen well to you. It is best to get your dog used to horses from a young age and to your horse as well. The animals can then get to know one another, but you will need to proceed more slowly, and with more patience. The dog must be fully grown for the first ride. Even if a dog is physically mature, it can be impulsive. They still need to practice a bit before you can allow them to ride with you.

Contact a riding companion dog trainer if you’re even slightly unsure of how to handle a horse and dog at the same. During the training, you’ll learn to control both animals at once and keep them under control. Clarity, consistency and calmness are key. Harshness or violence is unnecessary, or even dangerous. After all, you do not want to scare the animals. It is important to establish a relationship with your dog and horse based on trust so that they will obey you and follow you.

The other requirements will depend on your overall goals for working with your dog: Are you looking to have him as a pet and riding companion? Do you want to train him with or without a horse as well? Do you prefer to ride fast or short distances? Different breeds are best suited to you depending on your riding style. Some mixed breeds make good companions for riding. Before purchasing a four-legged friend it’s best to ask the animal shelter or animal protection if they have any dogs that are used to horses and love to run.

Riding companion dog breeds: these dogs are suitable

It is important to note that no matter what dog breed you choose, it needs to be well-trained and prepared, whether or not you have a trainer. It is primarily due to their athleticism, and a lack of hunting instinct that certain breeds make good companion dogs. Dogs with hunting instincts, however, can be trained to become riding companions under certain conditions, provided they are well-trained and have a good level of obedience, even when distracted.

Herding dogs may not be content as companions for riding alone because they miss their true job, which is herding. If you have a farm and allow your dog to not only walk with your horse, but also watch your animals, then this usually isn’t a problem. If you do not have a farm you can still keep your dog active and occupied with dog sports. Every dog is unique, but even dogs of the same breed can have different personalities. If you’re looking for a purebred dog, make sure to take your time and look at multiple breeders. Also, get some detailed advice.

Breeds that are good riding companions include:* Dalmatian* Australian Shepherd* Australian Cattle DogBorder CollieBeagle* Jack Russell Terrier

Herding breeds such as Australian Cattle Dog, Border Collie and Australian Shepherd should have other duties than riding companions that will satisfy their desire to herd flocks. Beagles and Jack Russell Terriers are only allowed if their hunting instinct is under control.

Some dogs are not suitable for horse riding

You should not ride a horse with a dog that has the following physical characteristics and conditions. The size of the riding companion dog should be appropriate. Large dogs can be too heavy for fast, long walks. They are not designed for strenuous horseback riding, especially if they tend to have hip dysplasia or other joint problems. Responsible breeding and thorough health screenings of parents are ways that reputable breeders reduce the risk of hip dysplasia.

Small dogs with short legs often struggle to keep up with horses. Jack Russell Terriers are an exception: they love to run for long distances. Small dogs, like the Pug, are not meant to be exercised for long periods of time. Small dogs can also get stuck under the legs of the horse and are hard to leash while in the saddle. A strong hunting instinct and very stubborn dogs are also not suitable. From the horse’s back, it is difficult to watch them and react quickly when they get out of control.